With deer season just around the corner, July is the prime time to prepare shooting lanes and remove problem trees around stand sites. Deer will spook easily and prefer to travel within areas of the wilderness that are void of human scent or unnatural disturbance. Excessive cuttings around stand sites should be discouraged during the season to prevent big, mature deer from altering their travel patterns. Despite the sweltering heat, July is a grand time to clean up old and prepare new shooting lanes.
Many hunters will mow or trim around stands just after the season ends or will wait until the week before the next one begins to clean up shooting lanes or stand areas. While large trees and unwanted vegetation can be cut or chemically-controlled during the winter, the aggressive nature of native vegetation in the Carolinas requires preseason pruning or removal later in the summer.
Cutting and mowing during July allows adequate time for deer and other wildlife to return to their normal routines before Opening Day. In fact, mowing around stand sites will promote the growth of tender grasses and forbs for the deer to eat during the late-summer period, drawing them to stand sites.
While trimming, climb tree stands to ensure that lanes are clear enough to take accurate shots, but with adequate cover remaining. Also, be sure to clear travel paths of obstructions and overhanging vegetation between the stand site and the area you park your vehicle. Excessive vegetation around your travel areas leads to unwanted noise and scent contamination during the
season.
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